Fake Medicine (Nakli Dawa): Strip, Pack and DRAP Number Checks (Video)

2:10 min

Read the full written guide: Fake Medicine (Nakli Dawa): Strip, Pack and DRAP Number Checks →

Learn quick, practical steps to spot fake or substandard medicines before you buy them. We walk through what to look for on the box, strip, and packaging, and how to verify registration online. These habits help you stay safe without needing a lab test. Remember, this is general guidance, not medical advice.

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Transcript

Ever wonder how to spot a fake pill in seconds?

Ever wonder how to spot a fake pill in seconds?

How to Spot Fake Medicines

Stay tuned; by the end you'll know the single check that catches most fake medicines.

Fake medicine types

People use the word nakli dawa for three different problems: falsified, substandard, and unregistered medicines. Falsified copies the box and may contain the wrong drug or nothing at all. Substandard comes from a licensed maker but fails quality. Unregistered lacks any official approval.

Substandard meds rate

The WHO says roughly one in ten medical products in low- and middle-income nations are substandard or falsified.

Box inspection checklist

When you’re at the pharmacy counter, look for a clear registration number, printed batch and expiry dates, the maker’s name and address, a printed retail price, and a clean blister with sharp lettering.

Strip vs box

Next, compare the strip. The batch and expiry on the foil should match exactly what’s on the box, the price should be printed, and all tablets should look the same in colour, size and shape.

Proper storage

Keep medicines in their original box and blister, stored in a cool, dry cupboard away from sunlight, moisture and heat; discard any that change colour, crumble or smell odd.

Online check steps

You can verify the registration online on the DRAP website or scan the QR code in India. Search by product name or registration number, and always use the regulator’s site, not a seller’s screenshot. Remember, a shop licence is different from a product registration.

The one check to avoid fakes

The single most reliable step is to match the batch and expiry numbers on the box and the strip; if they differ, put the pack back and ask the pharmacist before you take any tablets.

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Read the full guide

The full guide is on thecareonline.com. General information only, so check with your doctor for your own case.

Nothing on The Care Online is medical advice. Traditional practices are described as tradition, not as fact. Take a persistent or serious concern to a qualified professional. See how videos and posts are made on our methodology page.